Nigerian Catholic Priest Found Guilty of Sexual Assault in Texas, Sentencing Set for Monday
- Jun 1
- 1 min read
A court in the U.S. state of Texas has found Nigerian-born Catholic priest Anthony Odiong guilty of multiple sexual assault offences following a jury trial that concluded this week.
According to court records, prosecutors argued that Odiong exploited his position as a religious leader to take advantage of vulnerable women. Testimonies from the complainants played a central role in the case, with jurors ultimately finding the evidence sufficient to secure convictions on all three charges.
Under Texas law, the first-degree conviction carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment, while the second-degree offences could result in additional prison terms ranging from two to 20 years each.
The sentencing phase of the case is expected to begin on Monday, when the court will determine the punishment to be imposed on the priest.
The conviction follows years of scrutiny surrounding allegations of sexual misconduct against Odiong. Reports of abuse had prompted investigations that eventually led to criminal charges and the recent trial.
The case also marks another major sexual abuse conviction involving clergy linked to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Luling, Texas. In recent years, another priest associated with the parish received a life sentence after admitting to historic sexual abuse offences.
Odiong remains in custody pending sentencing. Prosecutors are expected to present arguments regarding the appropriate punishment, while the defence may seek a reduced sentence during the upcoming hearing.
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